Court Visit on 18th October 2023
The visit to the Ahmedabad District (Rural) Magistrate Court on 18th October, 2023, organized by the School of Law at Rai University, was a comprehensive and enlightening experience for the 79 participants, primarily comprising students. The primary objective of the event was to provide a practical understanding of the legal system in rural areas, focusing on the pivotal role of the Magistrate Court in dispensing justice.
The day commenced at 10:30 a.m., with students gathering at the court premises under the guidance of Ms. Tamanna Khatri, Assistant Professor at the School of Law. The event unfolded with a briefing by Advocate Sanjay V. Thakkar, a practicing lawyer at Ahmedabad District (Rural) Magistrate Court. Advocate Thakkar shared insights into the court's jurisdiction and elucidated the intricacies of different courtrooms.
The students, divided into groups, explored various courtrooms to witness live proceedings. This immersive exposure allowed them to observe the day-to-day functioning of both Civil and Criminal Courts, gaining valuable insights into the legal processes. Advocate Thakkar, in his interactions with the students, emphasized the importance of reading case laws to comprehend the rationale behind decisions. He provided a detailed overview of court proceedings, demystifying legal intricacies for the participants.
The visit aimed to enhance legal literacy, and it successfully achieved this by fostering awareness and understanding of legal procedures and rights among the participants. It also provided exposure to students, legal professionals, and community members, highlighting the significance of accessible justice and the role of the Magistrate Court in serving the rural population.
The event concluded at 3:00 p.m., leaving the students enriched with practical knowledge about the differences in proceedings between the Ahmedabad District (Rural) Magistrate Court and the Honourable High Court. The visit underscored the need for coordination in the justice system and showcased the distribution of power among judges, prosecution, and defence counsel. Overall, the Ahmedabad District (Rural) Magistrate Court visit proved to be a pivotal educational initiative, aligning with the broader goals of promoting legal literacy, providing exposure, and emphasizing the importance of accessible justice in rural communities.
